Paris Fair and St. George Applefest Make Top 100 List

Monday, 18 March 2019 09:49

The County of Brant was featured twice in the Top 100 list of Festivals and Events in Ontario.

BRANT COUNTY - The County of Brant was featured twice in the Top 100 list of Festivals and Events in Ontario.

For the second year in a row, the Paris Fair cracked the top 100, as did the St. George Applefest. The County of Brant was recognized at the Top 100 Awards at the Festivals and Events Ontario Annual Conference. Director of Economic Development and Tourism Russell Press Russell Press says they were honoured to be featured in the top 100.

"The County of Brant is so fortunate to have incredible events and festivals happening year round. The award speaks to the unique and valuable experiences that so many citizens and visitors enjoy. Behind each event are many volunteers and staff who are enriching the community."

The Paris Fair is actually celebrating their 160th birthday this year. Manager of the Paris Agricultural Society Cheryl Muir says the fair wouldn't be possible without their volunteers.

"The Paris Agricultural Society is honoured to be considered as one of the top celebrations in Ontario. It acknowledges the dedication and passion of over 500 members and volunteers who give thousands of hours to make the Paris Fair a success! It takes an incredible team to welcome 50,000 visitors over the five day period. The effort is worth it when you see a child, filled with joy, watching a baby chick hatch from its egg."

The profits from the Paris Fair are used to provide rental discounts to many important community groups who provide much needed local services and supports.

The St. George AppleFest has been offered for 34 years and has been recognized as an outstanding event for five years. Festival Coordinator Jean Tucker says it usually draws a huge crowd.

"This award is recognition of all the work our wonderful volunteers put into making AppleFest such an outstanding event. Approximately 25,000 people attend the event over two days. We love to showcase our small town and the festival offers a substantial economic boost for the St. George area. It is certainly a community event!"

This year, St. George AppleFest will take place on September 21 and 22, 2019.